Dental Braces

Is it safe to see the dentist during COVID-19? Yes!

Is It Safe to Visit the Dentist During COVID-19? Yes — visiting the dentist during COVID-19 is safe when proper infection control protocols are followed. Licensed dental clinics across Canada, including those in Calgary NW, have implemented rigorous safety measures to protect both patients and staff. Neglecting your oral health during the pandemic can lead to more serious dental issues that are harder to treat later. Why Oral Health Matters More Than Ever During a Pandemic A healthy mouth contributes directly to overall health. Research consistently shows that poor oral hygiene can increase susceptibility to infections, including respiratory illnesses. Conditions like untreated gum disease, tooth decay, and dental infections can compromise your immune response — making it more important, not less, to keep up with your regular dental care during uncertain times. Routine professional teeth cleaning and check-ups help identify problems early, reducing the need for more complex and urgent treatment down the road. If you're experiencing sudden tooth pain or swelling, don't delay — emergency dental care is available and is carried out under the same strict safety protocols. What Dental Offices Are Doing to Keep You Safe According to public health authorities, there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 transmission linked to dental office visits when proper protocols are followed. Licensed dental teams have adapted their practices to meet and exceed infection control standards. Here is what you can expect at a safety-compliant dental clinic: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Dentists, hygienists, and assistants wear masks, face shields, gowns, and gloves during all procedures. Enhanced sterilisation: All instruments are sterilised between patients, and high-touch surfaces are disinfected regularly throughout the day. HEPA air filtration and aerosol management: High-efficiency air filtration systems and aerosol reduction strategies minimise airborne risk during treatment. Pre-screening protocols: Patients are screened for symptoms before appointments, either by phone or upon arrival. Physical distancing in waiting areas: Seating arrangements and appointment scheduling have been adjusted to reduce crowding. Contactless check-in where possible: Digital forms and minimal paperwork reduce unnecessary contact. Hand hygiene stations: Sanitiser is available at entry points and throughout the clinic. What You Can Do Before Your Dental Appointment Patients also play an important role in keeping dental visits safe for everyone. Here are a few simple steps you can take: Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, call your dental clinic to reschedule. Arrive on time — not early. This helps manage the number of people in waiting areas at any one time. Wear a mask to your appointment and remove it only when directed by your dental team. Inform the clinic of any recent travel or exposure to confirmed COVID-19 cases. Brush and floss before your visit to support good hygiene practices for your dental team. Don't Let COVID-19 Anxiety Put Your Oral Health on Hold It's understandable to feel hesitant about visiting any healthcare setting during a pandemic. However, postponing dental care often leads to worsening conditions that may require…

5 Health Problems caused by Crooked Teeth

5 Health Problems Caused by Crooked Teeth Crooked or misaligned teeth are not just a cosmetic concern — they can directly affect your overall health. When teeth are not properly aligned, they become harder to clean, allowing harmful bacteria to build up and putting the rest of your body at risk. Here are five significant health problems that crooked teeth can cause, and what you can do about them. 1. Improper Digestion Your teeth play a critical role in the first stage of digestion. Each tooth is shaped for a specific chewing function, and when teeth are misaligned, that process breaks down. Crooked teeth make it difficult to chew food thoroughly, meaning larger food particles enter your digestive system before they are properly broken down. This incomplete breakdown reduces your body's ability to absorb nutrients effectively. Over time, poor nutrient absorption can weaken your immune system and negatively affect your energy levels and general health. Addressing misalignment is not just about aesthetics — it is about supporting your body's foundational functions. 2. Persistent Headaches and Jaw Pain When your teeth do not align correctly, your bite is thrown off balance. This places excessive strain on the muscles and joints that control jaw movement — particularly the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which connect your lower jaw to your skull. Crooked teeth restrict the smooth movement of the TMJ, which can lead to TMJ disorder — a condition associated with chronic headaches, migraines, facial pain, and jaw clicking or locking. If you experience recurring headaches without an obvious cause, your bite alignment may be a contributing factor. At Expressions Dental, our licensed dental team offers TMJ treatment in Calgary NW to help relieve discomfort caused by bite misalignment. 3. Gum Disease One of the most direct consequences of crooked teeth is an increased risk of gum disease. When teeth overlap or are crowded, toothbrush bristles and floss cannot reach all surfaces effectively. Bacteria that survive brushing and flossing begin to accumulate along the gum line, leading to plaque build-up, inflammation, and eventually gum disease (periodontitis). Left untreated, gum disease can cause gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss. Research also links advanced gum disease to systemic health conditions including heart disease and diabetes. Maintaining a consistent professional cleaning routine is essential — our registered dental hygienists in Calgary can help remove build-up in areas that are difficult to reach at home. Learn more about our periodontal care services if you are concerned about gum health. 4. Increased Risk of Tooth Decay and Damage The same crowding and overlapping that makes cleaning difficult also creates pockets where food debris and bacteria thrive. This concentrated bacterial activity accelerates tooth decay, leading to cavities — often in areas that are nearly impossible to clean with a standard toothbrush. Beyond decay, misaligned teeth that protrude or do not fit together properly are more vulnerable to chipping, cracking, and uneven wear. Teeth that absorb bite forces unevenly break down faster than properly aligned teeth. This structural damage can…

Read more about the article Reasons You Have Misaligned Teeth

Reasons You Have Misaligned Teeth

Why Are My Teeth Misaligned? Common Causes and Treatment Options Misaligned teeth — also called malocclusion — occur when your teeth do not fit together properly, resulting in crowding, spacing, crookedness, or a mismatched bite. Several factors can cause teeth to shift out of alignment, including genetics, childhood habits, and jaw development. The good news is that effective treatment options are available for patients of all ages in Calgary NW. What Causes Misaligned Teeth? Understanding the root cause of your misalignment is the first step toward finding the right treatment. The most common causes include: Genetics: A family history of crowded or spaced teeth is one of the most common reasons for misalignment. If your parents had crooked teeth, there is a higher chance you may as well. Jaw size discrepancy: When the upper and lower jaws are different sizes or not fully developed, teeth may shift, overlap, or become crowded. Childhood oral habits: Prolonged thumb sucking, pacifier use beyond age 3, and extended bottle feeding can alter the development of the jaw and palate, causing teeth to grow in misaligned positions. Jaw injury or trauma: An injury to the jaw can cause it to heal in a misaligned position, affecting how your teeth come together. Ill-fitting dental restorations: Poorly fitted dental crowns, fillings, or other restorations can alter your bite over time and contribute to misalignment. Early tooth loss: Losing baby or adult teeth prematurely can cause neighbouring teeth to drift into the empty space, disrupting alignment. Small jaw relative to tooth size: When teeth are too large for the jaw, they become crowded and may push each other out of position. How Do Misaligned Teeth Affect Your Oral Health? Misaligned teeth are not simply a cosmetic concern — they can have a meaningful impact on your overall oral health. Common problems associated with malocclusion include: Difficulty cleaning teeth: Crowded or overlapping teeth create hard-to-reach areas where plaque and bacteria accumulate, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Gum disease: Poor alignment makes it harder to maintain effective brushing and flossing, which can lead to gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease. Uneven tooth wear: A misaligned bite places uneven pressure on certain teeth, causing them to wear down faster than others. Jaw pain and TMJ issues: Bite problems can strain the jaw joint, contributing to jaw pain, headaches, or TMJ disorder. Chewing and speaking difficulties: Severely misaligned teeth can interfere with normal chewing function and, in some cases, affect speech clarity. Treatment Options for Misaligned Teeth The right treatment for misaligned teeth depends on the severity of the misalignment and your individual dental needs. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our licensed dental team will assess your teeth, bite, and jaw to recommend the most appropriate solution. Invisalign Clear Aligners For mild to moderate misalignment, Invisalign in Calgary NW is a popular and discreet treatment option. Invisalign uses a series of custom-fitted, clear removable aligners to gradually shift your teeth into the correct position. Because they are nearly…

Read more about the article Gaps Between Teeth: Causes and Solutions

Gaps Between Teeth: Causes and Solutions

What Causes Gaps Between Teeth — and How Can They Be Fixed? Gaps between teeth, clinically known as diastema, are common in both children and adults. While they are not always harmful, larger gaps can affect your bite, cause discomfort, and make many people feel self-conscious about their smile. The good news is that several effective dental treatments are available to close gaps and restore a well-aligned, confident smile. Causes of Gaps Between Teeth In Children Gaps between a child's teeth are entirely normal and generally not a cause for concern. As permanent adult teeth grow in, they typically fill the available space and close the gap naturally. That said, it is still important for parents to support their child's oral health with regular dental check-ups. Our dental care for children in Calgary team monitors tooth development and spacing as part of every routine visit. In Adults In adults, gaps between teeth are most often caused by a jaw that is proportionally larger than the teeth. When there is more jaw than tooth structure to fill it, the teeth spread out and leave noticeable spaces. While this gap most commonly appears between the upper two front teeth, it can occur anywhere in the mouth. Self-Affecting Habits Certain habits — particularly those that begin in childhood — can contribute to the development of gaps over time. These include: Thumb sucking: Prolonged thumb sucking during childhood places forward pressure on the front teeth, gradually pushing them apart. Tongue thrusting: When the tongue is habitually pushed against the front teeth during swallowing rather than resting against the roof of the mouth, it can slowly force the teeth forward and create spacing. Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease) Untreated gum disease can cause the bone and tissue supporting your teeth to deteriorate. As this support weakens, teeth may shift or loosen, creating or widening gaps. If you notice new spacing developing alongside bleeding or swollen gums, it is important to seek assessment promptly. Our team provides periodontal care to address gum disease before it causes further damage. Missing Teeth When a tooth is lost and not replaced, the surrounding teeth can drift into the empty space over time, creating new gaps or misalignment throughout the arch. Tumour Growths In rare cases, a gap may develop due to abnormal tissue growth within the mouth. Any sudden or unexplained spacing change warrants a timely dental assessment to rule out underlying concerns. Treatment Options for Gaps Between Teeth The most appropriate treatment for a gap between teeth depends on its cause, size, and location. A licensed dental professional will assess your situation and recommend the best approach. Common solutions include: Invisalign (clear aligners): A discreet, removable orthodontic option that gradually shifts teeth into alignment. Invisalign in Calgary NW is a popular choice for adults and teens seeking a non-invasive solution for spacing issues. Porcelain veneers: Thin, custom-crafted shells bonded to the front of teeth to improve their appearance, including closing minor to moderate gaps. Learn more about porcelain veneers…

Read more about the article About Mouth Guards

About Mouth Guards

What Is a Mouth Guard and Why Do You Need One? A mouth guard is a protective dental appliance that covers your teeth and gums to shield them from injury, impact, and the damaging effects of grinding or clenching. They are used in contact sports, during sleep, and in certain dental procedures such as teeth whitening. Whether you are an athlete, a parent of an active child, or someone who grinds their teeth at night, wearing the right mouth guard can protect your smile and prevent serious long-term dental damage. What Can a Mouth Guard Protect Against? Mouth guards serve several important protective functions. A well-fitted mouth guard can help prevent: Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth Tooth loss from impact or trauma Nerve damage requiring treatment such as root canal treatment Jaw fractures and neck injuries Concussions and cerebral haemorrhages by cushioning the impact when the lower jaw is jammed into the upper jaw Lacerations and bruising of the lips and cheeks, particularly for those wearing orthodontic appliances such as Invisalign Worn-down tooth enamel caused by nighttime grinding (bruxism) In short, a mouth guard is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your long-term oral health. Types of Mouth Guards There are three main types of mouth guards available, each offering a different level of protection, comfort, and fit. 1. Stock Mouth Guards Stock mouth guards are pre-formed, ready-to-wear appliances available at most department stores and sporting goods retailers. They are the most affordable option, but they come with significant drawbacks. Because they cannot be adjusted to fit your mouth, they often feel bulky and uncomfortable, making it difficult to speak or breathe properly. Most licensed dentists do not recommend stock mouth guards as they offer the least amount of protection and rarely fit securely. 2. Boil-and-Bite Mouth Guards Boil-and-bite mouth guards are made from a thermoplastic material that softens when placed in boiling water. Once softened, you bite into the material to create a rough impression of your teeth, giving a closer fit than a stock mouth guard. These are widely available at sporting goods stores and offer a moderate level of protection. While they are a step up from stock varieties, the fit is still not as precise or as comfortable as a custom-made option. 3. Custom-Fitted Mouth Guards Custom-fitted mouth guards are made by your dentist using precise impressions of your teeth. Because they are crafted specifically for your mouth, they offer superior comfort, a secure fit, and the highest level of protection available. Custom mouth guards are the preferred choice recommended by licensed dental professionals — particularly for contact sport athletes, children in active sports, and individuals experiencing bruxism (teeth grinding) or TMJ-related jaw pain. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our team can create a custom mouth guard tailored precisely to your bite and lifestyle needs. Sports Mouth Guards vs. Night Guards: What Is the Difference? While both types of appliances are called mouth guards, they are designed for different purposes: Sports mouth guards…

Read more about the article Caring for Teeth with Braces and Retainers

Caring for Teeth with Braces and Retainers

How to Care for Your Teeth with Braces and Retainers Caring for your teeth during orthodontic treatment is essential for a healthy, beautiful result. Braces, wires, and appliances create extra surfaces where food and plaque can collect, increasing the risk of staining, decay, and permanent white spots on your teeth. With the right daily habits, you can protect your smile throughout treatment and beyond. Why Oral Hygiene Matters More with Braces When you wear braces, food particles can become trapped around brackets, wires, and bands. If left in place, this food reacts with bacteria in your mouth and the metal components of your braces, which can cause a bleaching effect — leaving small, permanent light spots on the surface of your teeth. Consistent brushing and rinsing are your best defences against this kind of damage. For families in Calgary NW navigating orthodontic treatment, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is just as important as attending your regular adjustment appointments. Our team at Family Dental Care Calgary NW can support you with hygiene check-ins throughout your treatment. Brushing and Rinsing with Braces Follow these daily habits to keep your teeth and braces clean: Brush after every meal and snack using a fluoride toothpaste. Do not skip this step, even if you are away from home. Use an orthodontic toothbrush or an interdental brush specifically designed to clean around brackets and between wires. Remove all visible food debris from your braces before brushing, using a floss threader, orthodontic flosser, or water flosser. Use a fluoride mouthwash daily — it reaches areas between teeth and around appliances that your toothbrush cannot access. Regular professional cleanings are also critical during orthodontic treatment. Our dental hygienist team in Calgary is experienced in cleaning around orthodontic appliances to remove hardened plaque and tartar that brushing alone cannot eliminate. Foods to Avoid While Wearing Braces Certain foods can loosen, break, or bend your brackets and wires, leading to delays in your treatment and unexpected dental visits. While wearing braces, avoid the following: Hard or Tough Foods Whole apples and raw carrots (cut these into small pieces instead) Bagels and crusty bread Hard pretzels and nuts Corn on the cob (cut corn off the cob before eating) Ice — never chew ice Sticky and Chewy Foods Taffy, caramels, and toffee Chewing gum and bubble gum Gummy candies Sticking to brace-friendly foods not only protects your appliances — it also reduces the chance of food getting trapped and contributing to decay or discolouration. If you have concerns about teeth whitening after your braces are removed, our team offers several options including teeth whitening in Calgary NW to help restore a bright, even smile. How to Care for Your Retainer Once your braces are removed, your retainer plays a critical role in keeping your teeth in their new positions. Proper retainer care helps it last longer and keeps your mouth healthy. Brush your retainer every time you brush your teeth using a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or plain water. Disinfect your…